The WGSN Travel A-list: Havana, Palma and Mornington Peninsula

From affordable luxury in New York, to a private bay in Palma, minimalistic chic in Singapore and more, we’ve got it all this month. If this travel blog doesn’t get you inspired for your next trip, we’re not sure what will!

Read on for the full selection and make sure you bookmark them for your next trip.

Ian Schrager, hotel veteran and co-founder of the infamous Studio 54, recently unveiled his latest venture in the heart of New York City’s Lower East Side. Complete with rooftop bar offering 360-degree views of Gotham City, a nightclub in the basement, a Jean-Georges Vongerichten Public Kitchen main restaurant and so much more. Here’s the kicker: there is NO room service and guests are encouraged to self-check in when they arrive. Schrager wants to empower his guests in the same way Airbnb has been doing for the past few years. Simply put, Public effortlessly balances luxury and affordability.

With 100+ years of rich hotelier history, it was only right that the Kempinski group move their efforts into the uncharted Cuban Capital, Havana. This new 5-star hotel is the first of its kind in Cuba and finally brings an elevated luxurious aesthetic to an island that has always been so rich with culture. Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana will without a doubt become a new tourist epicenter and features three restaurants, three bars, a gym on the top floor, a rooftop pool, a Cigar lounge (of course, right?!) and a massive spa. Nightly rates start at £330 per night, but that price sky rockets to £1,900 if you opt for one of the spacious suites – quite a ticket but well worth the experience!

Generator Copenhagen is the latest outpost of the affordable boutique hotel chain, based in the heart of the city just a few minutes walk away from the famous Nyhavn harbour. The six storey hotel houses 662 beds, a mix of shared rooms and private doubles, all including enhanced design features. As with all Generator hostels though, it’s the social spaces that really stand out, kitted out with pool tables, crate-seating areas, dining tables, games areas and a large terrace, making it the perfect space for guests and locals alike to work, play, eat and mingle.

This international beach club brand has opened its latest site on the beautiful beach of Illetas in Palma, Majorca. Featuring a limestone cave bar and three stunning spaces in washed white and wood, the elegant beach club typifies the classic Mediterranean look. Visit for a quiet day by the beach at its own private bay, or opt to try the terrace bar and restaurant, or the stylish late night bar for sundowners. Trust us, it’s set to be the next Palma hotspot.

An hour away from Melbourne hidden in the sleepy Willow Creek Vineyard is the most talked-about boutique hotel opening this year. Jackalope, opened by 29-year-old Louis Li, is not just another luxury boutique hotel but one that has design at its core and details on its mind. Expect an almost masculine black, gold and grey design scheme by Melbourne architect and design firm Carr Design Group, as well as art pieces by local artists installed at the front entrance and within. Other creative must-sees inside the space include a 30m black infinity pool and a yoga lawn.

Singapore is not short of chic and modern boutique hotels, and a new brand new contender has just appeared for your consideration. With an obvious yet pleasing monotone and minimal decor, Hotel Mono’s 46 rooms are made for everyone from single travellers to families. While its affordable rates also mean the lack of a gym or pool, you can expect to find all the great food, hidden bars and beyond in the nearby Chinatown area.